Airline introduces "adults-only zone," stirring debate on traveling with children
An airline's announcement of an "adults-only zone" has sparked a heated online debate. Opinions are divided, with some appreciating the idea of a peaceful, child-free area, while others perceive it as a hindrance to parents.
4:32 PM EDT, November 4, 2023
The experience of being subjected to a crying child on a flight can be grueling. However, the introduction of "child-free zones" in public places doesn't come without controversy. Cafes, restaurants, and hotels have already adopted similar policies. The topic resurfaced recently when the Dutch division of the Corendon airline announced plans to introduce an adult-only section within its aircraft, as reported by the "Daily Mail".
Children will not be permitted in this designated area.
This new implementation is set to begin and undergo testing towards the end of November, on flights between Amsterdam and Curacao in the Caribbean. The zone will be in the front area of the plane, comprising 93 standard seats, along with nine "XL" seats offering more legroom. The section will be physically divided from the rest of the cabin, "using walls and curtains." The adult zone is intended for passengers who are at least 16 years old.
Some commentators have expressed worries that this trend might spread to other aspects of life. One user of the social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), quoted by the "Daily Mail", commented, "I've come across apartment ads specifying they don’t accept tenants with children. It's appalling".
A concerned mother suggested that such a policy could deter people from having children: "Having kids has become an isolating experience. Before having my own, I never bothered about other children in restaurants or on planes. Isolating moms is not a wise idea," she wrote.
However, there were also those who supported the introduction of child-free zones: "The last time I flew, I wished I could have paid extra to fly without children around. Almost every time I travel by air, which isn’t often, a child cries during the journey."
Atilay Uslu, the founder of Corendon Airlines, explained the rationale behind the company's decision. "We strive to address the various requirements of our customers. We are the first Dutch airline to introduce an adults-only zone, enabling travelers who seek tranquility to experience it. We also believe it can have a beneficial effect on parents traveling with young children. They can enjoy the flight without worrying about if their children are making noise," he said.
